Global Filipino Schools Program Reaches All 17 Regions in the PH

About 214 schools across all 17 regions in the Philippines, latest of which are those in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), are being equipped with information and communications technology (ICT) tools and methodologies on 21st-century education through Global Filipino Schools (GFS) program.

The GFS program is part of a long-term partnership between Globe Telecom and the Department of Education (DepEd), meant to forward 21st-century learning principles and ICT integration in public schools nationwide. It aims to transform public high schools into ICT centers of excellence by equipping students and teachers with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed for the 21st century. Through the GFS program, schools received free internet connectivity; as well as ICT tools like tablets, projectors, virtual reality (VR) goggles, casting dongles, pocket WiFi devices, and a mobile cart. Most importantly, partner schools also received an intensive teacher training program on 21st-century learning approach, ICT integration in classrooms, as well as content responsible digital citizenship.

Ahead of their 2020 target, Globe and DepEd brought the program to all 17 regions in the Philippines, with ARMM as its final leg.

Schools in ARMM which are under the program are the following:

Maluso National High School (Basilan)

Lamitan National High School (Lamitan City)

Sultan Guro Memorial National High School (Lanao del Sur 1)

Lorenzo Elementary School (Lanao del Sur 2)

Malabang National High School (Lanao del Sur 2)

Talayan National High School (Maguindanao 1)

Bugabungan National High School (Maguindanao 2)

Marawi City National High School (Marawi City)

Sulu National High School (Sulu)

To assess its success upon its implementation, a study released by Taylor Nelson Sofres in 2015 showed the GFS program helped improve digital skills among teachers and students, specifically on usage of mobile technology and computer software.

The study also showed that the GFS program enabled 21st-century learning outcomes that involve creativity, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking; increased student engagement in classroom activities; as well as helped enhance school culture through readiness in ICT integration.